Mehrangarh, also known as Mehran Fort, built by Rao Jodha in Jodhpur in 1459, is one of the largest forts in the country. It is situated on the top of a 410 feet high hill and is protected by massive walls. One of the most easily recognizable forts in Jodhpur, it has appeared in several Hollywood and Bollywood productions such as The Lion King, The Dark Knight Rises and most recently – Thugs of Hindostan. The entrance to the fort built atop a hill is majestic and has seven gates. These are called Vijay Dwar, Fateh Dwar, Gopal Dwar, Bhairon Dwar, Dedh Kamagra Dwar, Marti Dwar and finally Loha Dwar. Each of these was created at different times and serves a very specific purpose. While one still bears marks from cannon balls, the other has spikes to protect it from attacks by elephants and animals. However, the Vijay Dwar was built to commemorate the victory of Maharaja Man Singh over the Jaipur and Bikaner armies. The fort also houses grand palaces like Sheesh Mahal (Glass Palace) and Phool Mahal (Rose Palace).
The intricate carvings on the walls of the fort, the spacious courtyard, its impressive history, attractive palaces, museums and galleries attract tourists from all over the world. The fort also houses one of the rich museums of Rajasthan. Mehrangarh Museum has six different galleries: Howrah of Elephants, Palki, Daulat Khana, Armoury, Paintings and Turban Gallery. National Geological Monument, Nagnecha Mataji Temple, Chamunda Temple and Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park are tourist attractions in Mehrangarh Fort.
Mehrangarh History:-The interesting history of Mehrangarh Fort takes us to the time when Rao Jodha, the 15th Rathore ruler, founded Jodhpur in the year 1459. Raja Ram Mal's son, Rao Jodha ruled the city from Mandore but shifted his capital to Jodhpur. Then, he laid the foundation of the fort on Bhaucheria hill, just 9 km from Mandore. The fort was named Mehrangarh Fort because the main deity of the Rathores was Surya and 'Mehran' means Sun. Apart from the major construction, many more additions were made by other rulers of Jodhpur such as Maldev Maharaja, Ajit Singh Maharaja, Takhat Singh and Maharaja Hanwant Singh. At that time there were many clashes between the rulers and this fort was then an object of great power and prestige.
Architecture:-The forts and palaces were constructed over a period of 500 years, and thus features of 20th century architecture as well as the original architectural style of the mid-15th century can be seen. The fort is 68 feet wide and 117 feet long. Its tall walls overlooked the surrounding areas. It has seven gates, and the most popular among them is Jayapoli. The architecture of the fort underwent many developments over a period of 500 years. Many buildings in the fort were constructed in Mughal designs during the reign of Maharaja Ajit Singh. Apart from the seven gates which leave the tourists in awe, there are many magnificently designed palaces like Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Daulat Khana, Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and Sileh Khan. . Moti Mahal, or the Pearl Palace, was built by Raja Sur Singh. Sheesh Mahal, or the Hall of Mirrors is famous for the intricate designs on the mirror pieces. Maharaja Abhay Singh built Phool Mahal. The superb workmanship of Jodhpuri artisans can be seen in the sandstone used in the construction of the palace.
Weather : 27 - 38°C
Label : Must Go
Tags : Mehrangarh Fort
Timings : 9:00 to 17:00
Time Required : 1-2 hours
Entry Fee : International Guests (Includes the Audio): Indian Rupeas 600
Domestic Guests: Indian Rupeas 100
Photography Permit (Still): Indian Rupeas 100
Photography Permit (Video): Indian Rupeas 200
Elevator (one-way): Indian Rupeas 50